Registration to open for Live Wreath Workshop events soon

September is early to be thinking about the winter holiday season, but now’s the time to sign up for Carrie Paulus’ unique Live Wreath Workshops.

Locally, events are set at Kent’s Bell Tower Brewing Co. and Suffield’s Crafted Artisan Meadery, where Paulus has offered the workshops for years. Attendees include individuals, families and friends eager to share a unique experience. The evening makes a great date night, too, Paulus said.

“It’s become a tradition. Many people have been coming for the entire nine years. It’s celebratory, fun, engaging and interactive. People come in the first time and they’re like, ‘I am not crafty,’ but then they enjoy the experience and take home a beautifully crafted fresh wreath,” she said.

Paulus, a Brimfield resident, and her assistants provide participants with 14-inch wire frames around which novice and experienced crafters can weave evergreen boughs and decorations. They model the process, and circulate the space to ensure a no-stress experience for everyone. All tools are provided. 

Customers can choose from a variety of hand-tied bows, custom artisan ornaments, branches, pine cones, berries and dried fruits that Paulus has on hand.

“The only thing artificial is the berries because they don’t preserve well,” she said.

The finished wreaths are usually 18-22 inches in diameter. Hung outdoors away from wind and direct sun, they will last six to eight weeks. Indoors, they will stay fresh for a week or two, depending on heat and humidity levels.

“Many times people send me photos of their crafted wreath at other holidays, including Valentine’s Day and St. Paddy’s Day, and they have just swapped out the decoration,” Paulus said.

Even people who don’t celebrate Christmas can enjoy designing and creating a fresh, live wreath with natural materials.

“When you walk into a workshop, the first thing that grabs your attention is the aroma of the four different evergreens that are used in making the wreaths. As they’re creating, they’re amazed and excited at their own skills, and all the wreaths come out unique and beautiful,” she said.

The Bell Tower Brewing events are set for Nov. 25, Dec. 1 and Dec. 2. Workshops at Crafted Artisan Meadery are set for Dec. 4 and 10. All events are set for 6-8:30 p.m.

To register, keep an eye on each venue’s website and social media page. All reservations are prepaid and nonrefundable, and costs vary according to each venue’s food and beverage inclusions.